Custer State Park (CSP)
This park was on our planned route from I-90 to Colorado. In 2013 we camped for 5 days in CSP as part of our Glacier NP trip. The campground is among large pines, very well-spaced sites and close to legion Lake. CSP is in the Black Hills encompassing 71,000 acres of spectacular terrain and an abundance of wildlife. The park has a herd of 1,300 bison roaming freely throughout the park, often stopping traffic along the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road. The herd is one of the largest publically-owned herds in the world. Bison can weigh as much as 2,000 pounds. Besides bison, the park is home to other wildlife such as pronghorn antelope, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, deer, elk, prairie dogs and a band of wild burros. “Begging Burros” is a name used to refer to the donkeys in Custer State Park. For many years, these donkeys have earned this nickname as they approach various passing cars through the park begging for food.

National Historic Trails Interpretive Center
The National Historical Trails Interpretive Center is a must-see destination while visiting Casper. Its location represents a rough intersection of the Oregon, California, Mormon and Pony Express Trails. The Oregon Trail and the California Trail were collectively known as the Emigrant Trail. During a visit, one can explore exhibits related to names that are truly legendary in Western history. Through these exhibits, the real-life drama that the pioneers experienced as they followed these trails between 1841 and 1868 is captured. Outside the Center is a very large sculpture honoring the Pony Express Riders. The sculpture is by Robert Shure.